McSorley’s in Ranelagh Finalizes Takeover of Wild Goose Restaurant | The Irish Times Update

McSorley’s in Ranelagh to Launch New Food and Events Space Above Pub

McSorley’s,the popular pub in Ranelagh,is set to expand its offerings with a new venture in the space formerly occupied by the Wild Goose Grill. The pub’s owners, Grand Slam Bars, are finalizing plans to transform the upstairs area into a seven-days-a-week food and drinks destination, complete with an events space.

Expansion Details and vision

Noel Anderson, managing director of Grand Slam bars, revealed the plans in a recent interview. “Our plan would be to grow it more as a seven day a week business,” Anderson stated. “We’ve just done a deal with the guy who runs a restaurant upstairs. We’re taking that back, the deal is just being finalised.”

The envisioned space will feature a revamped menu and expanded beverage selection. “We plan on putting our own food into it, growing the food trade there, growing the cocktail trade and having a super events space upstairs. We’re excited about that,” Anderson added.

Investment and Future Plans

The fit-out of the new space represents a important investment for Grand Slam Bars. anderson estimates the project will cost “hundreds of thousands of euro.” Though, he believes the investment is worthwhile, stating, “but I think it will be worth it. We own the building, it’s a long-term investment and we’re excited about what the future holds in Ranelagh.”

Grand Slam Bars Portfolio

Grand Slam Bars, the group behind McSorley’s, is owned by Anderson and former Irish rugby stars Rob Kearney, Dave kearney, Jamie Heaslip, and Sean O’Brien. The group acquired McSorley’s for €5.5 million last year and also owns several other prominent establishments, including The Bridge 1859 in Ballsbridge, the blackrock pub, and lemon & Duke and Little Lemon in the city center.

Financial Performance and Food Focus

The group employs over 200 staff and generates approximately €11 million in combined revenues annually.Food sales currently account for about €4 million of the group’s turnover, demonstrating the increasing importance of culinary offerings in their business model. “Food is a big part of what we do now and that’s probably a lot of where the future lies,” Anderson noted.

Strategic Vision and Rugby Days

Anderson envisions McSorley’s maintaining its “late focused” bar atmosphere while leveraging the new upstairs space to attract a broader clientele. He anticipates significant business opportunities,particularly on rugby days. “What’s exciting for us is that on big rugby days you will get business all day and all night as well,” he said.

Looking Ahead

With the Wild Goose Grill slated to close at the end of March,the transformation of the space above McSorley’s is eagerly anticipated. This expansion signifies a strategic move by Grand Slam Bars to enhance its presence in Ranelagh and cater to a wider range of customers. This promises a new exciting drinking and dining experience in the heart of Ranelagh.

Check back for updates on the grand opening and menu details!

What inspired Grand Slam Bars too invest in expanding McSorley’s?

Exclusive Interview: grand Slam Bars’ Noel Anderson on McSorley’s Expansion

Expanding Horizons: A Chat with Noel Anderson

what sparked the idea to transform the upstairs space at McSorley’s?

“We’ve always seen the potential in that space. With the Wild Goose Grill vacating, we finally had the opportunity to take it back and create something new. It’s all about growing our seven-day business and offering a wider range of experiences to our customers.”

Food,Drinks,and Events: A New Offering

Tell us about the envisioned space and what customers can expect.

“We’re planning a revamped menu, expanding our drink selection, and creating a fantastic events space. Whether it’s a weekday lunch, evening cocktails, or a rugby match screening, we’ll have something for everyone.”

Investing in Ranelagh’s Future

This expansion represents a meaningful investment for Grand Slam Bars. Can you share more about that?

“It’s a substantial project, in the hundreds of thousands of euro, but we believe it’s a worthwhile long-term investment. we own the building and are committed to Ranelagh’s future. We’re excited about what this means for the area and our customers.”

Grand Slam Bars: From Rugby to Hospitality

From rugby stars to pub owners, how has the transition been for you and your co-owners?

“It’s been a engaging journey. Our rugby backgrounds have taught us a lot about teamwork and resilience, which have been invaluable in the hospitality industry. we’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far and are eager to keep growing.”

Food Focus and Future Opportunities

With food sales accounting for a significant portion of your turnover, how do you continue to innovate and attract foodie customers?

“We’re constantly evolving our menus to keep things fresh and exciting. It’s about sourcing high-quality ingredients, listening to our customers, and staying ahead of food trends. I believe that’s where the future lies for us.”

Rugby days and Beyond

McSorley’s is already a popular spot on rugby days. How will this expansion change the dynamic?

“It’ll definitely create a different energy on rugby days,with customers enjoying food and drinks throughout the day. But we also want to attract a broader clientele on non-match days. It’s about diversity and offering something for everyone.”

Looking Forward

With the Wild Goose Grill closing at the end of March,what can readers expect next?

“We’re eager to show off what we’ve been working on. Stay tuned for updates on the grand opening and menu details. It’s an exciting time for McSorley’s and we can’t wait to share our new space with Ranelagh.”